Synthetic Biology is a novel discipline that aims at designing and realizing novel functionalities in living organisms as well as redesigning already existing natural biological systems. These tasks are achieved through a rational approach, borrowed from engineering, and using laboratory techniques such as the recombinant DNA methods. Up to the present, several applications concerning biosafety, bioremediation, health, pharmacology and biofuels have been developed using this approach.

Our laboratory focuses on:

• Study of biological parts and devices predictability via mathematical modelling and in-vivo evaluation;
• Development of genetic and computational tools to support the design of novel living systems;
• Re-engineering of bacterial communication mechanisms to carry out novel engineering-inspired functions;
• Characterization of CRISPR-interference mechanism and application of CIRPSR-mediated gene regulation in living controllers for microbiome applications;
• Construction of microorganisms able to convert industrial waste into high-value biocommodities such as biofuels and biopolymers.

For more information see the Synthetic Biology page.